US VISA Application for Filipinos

Getting a US Visa is probably every Filipino's nightmare. For one, it's expensive, second, chances of getting approved is not that high. Although since recession has hit America, most people I know got 10 years visa, my friend's nanny was even granted 5 years! But mind you, upon entering US soil, immigration official remain stern. IMHO, US immigration officials (considering they are not American themselves) are probably the most unwelcoming beings on earth.  (Amsterdam have the most charming and not to mention good looking immigration officials.) They would say they have tightened security since the 9/11 incident, but ten years ago, they were already like that.

I've always have a US visa since I was a kid. I'm lucky that I was granted multiple entry through drop box.  But that is no longer allowed.  The last one was granted ten years ago and it recently expired.  I am now preparing necessary documents for my first US visa interview ever and it's a long shot.

Non-immigrant Visa Application entails the following process:
 http://manila.usembassy.gov/wwwh3024.html

• Fill-up DS-160 online.  

• Online Visa Application Form is mandatory effective May 24, 2010. 

• Attach a 2"x2" digital photo on the DS-160.  You can find the Photo guidelines here and test your photo here.

• After completing your DS-160 online, you may set an appointment through the call center or online through visapoint.

• $10 is charged to my credit card for opting for registering with visapoint.  Only one registration is required for a family of five living in the same address.  Groups of 5 or more traveling for the same purpose can also use the Standard Group option.

• With visapoint,  you can readily see the available dates and time of appointment.  Appointment can be changed upto three times.
• After completing the registration, appointment, and applicant information print the Machine Readable Visa Application; the barcode must be readable.
• Pay applicable visa fees through Banco de Oro and Citibank together with a copy of:

1. the Machine Readable Visa Application
2. DS-160 Confirmation Page
3. Appointment Confirmation Receipt
   Effective June 4, 2010, the fees are as follows:
   
   
   

   $140	– B1/B2, C1/D, F, J, and all other NIV categories not listed below (Visitor/Transit/Student)
   $150	- H, L, O, P, Q, and R (Temporary Worker)
   $350	– K (Fiancée)
   $390	- E (Investor/Trader)

• The bank will issue two copies of bill payment slip.
• Attach the blue copy (embassy copy) to the DS-160 and submit it during the interview.
• Be at the embassy an hour before the scheduled interview.
• Present the following documents for USA visa interview:

1. DS-160 with blue copy of bill payment slip
2. Machine Readable Confirmation Page
3. Appointment Confirmation Page
4. Passport with 6 months validity from intended date of departure
5. NSO Birth Certificate and Marriage Certificate
6. Additional documentary requirements may be necessary for different visa type.
7. For tourism, applicant must show evidence of financial status and ties in the Philippines.

With the number of applicants a day, the interviewing consular does not necessarily go through the documents you submit; the data on the DS-160 will definitely be crucial.  Basic questions will be asked and gut feel will probably grant or deny you your visa.

I'm flying to Manila a few weeks from now for my scheduled interview, wish me luck!